Philadelphia, November 26, 2025
As the holiday season nears, Philadelphia is set to welcome back the beloved Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village, providing free festive celebrations for all. Running from late November to Christmas Eve, these traditional attractions aim to foster community spirit and showcase local heritage. The Wanamaker Light Show features dazzling lights and music while Dickens Village offers an immersive experience of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. These cherished events highlight the city’s resilience and collective effort in reviving its cultural landscape.
Discover the Holiday Magic of Philadelphia’s Wanamaker Light Show
Experience two beloved traditions returning to the city this season
Philadelphia, PA – As the holiday season approaches, Philadelphia residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the return of the cherished Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village at the historic Wanamaker Building. Beginning Friday, November 28, 2025, these cultural traditions will illuminate the city’s holiday spirit and provide a free festive experience for all until Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025. Their resurgence is a testament to the resilience and civic engagement of the Philadelphia community, proving the power of personal initiative and public support in revitalizing local culture.
The Wanamaker Light Show, a combination of breathtaking light displays and classic holiday music, and Dickens Village, an immersive walkthrough of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” are not only entertaining but also foster community connections. These events reflect how fewer bureaucratic hurdles can enhance community participation and celebrate local heritage, showcasing how Philadelphia can thrive through collaborative efforts.
Event Details
Wanamaker Light Show
- Schedule: Daily shows every hour on the half hour, from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. starting November 28 through December 11, then extending to 6:30 p.m. from December 12 to December 23.
- Location: Grand Court of the Wanamaker Building, 100 E. Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA 19107.
- Admission: Free; no tickets required for entry.
- Special Features: Accompanied by the historic Wanamaker Organ with live performances at select times Wednesday through Saturday.
Dickens Village
- Schedule: Open Wednesday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. until December 11, then daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. until December 23, and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
- Admission: Free but requires advanced reservation of timed-entry tickets.
- Experience: Features 26 scenes from “A Christmas Carol,” showcasing over 100 vintage figurines.
Additional Attractions
- Holly and Humbug Holiday Pop-Up Restaurant: Featuring wintry fare and festive beverages.
- The Shops at The Wanamaker Light Show Vendor Village: An indoor market showcasing locally crafted gifts and artisanal goods.
Looking Ahead: Future Considerations
- Future of the Attractions: The Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village are expected to pause for renovations during the 2026 and 2027 holiday seasons.
- Community Support: This year’s events are funded by community efforts, with over 1,000 Philadelphians contributing to ensure their continuation.
Weather Forecast for Opening Day
On November 28, expect chilly weather, with highs around 43°F (6°C) and lows near 29°F (-2°C). Dressing warmly will enhance your experience at the festivities.
Getting There
The Wanamaker Building is centrally located and easily accessible via public transportation, including several SEPTA routes, enhancing ease of access for all attendees.
Contact Information
For further details and reservations, visit the Philadelphia Visitor Center website or contact them directly.
FAQ
What are the dates and times for the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village?
The events begin on Friday, November 28, 2025, and run through Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025. The Wanamaker Light Show operates every hour on the half hour, starting at 12:30 p.m. and continuing until 5:30 p.m. from November 28 to December 11, and from December 12 to December 23, shows are held every hour on the half hour, starting at 12:30 p.m. and continuing until 6:30 p.m. Dickens Village is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. from November 28 to December 11, and daily from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. from December 12 to December 23. On Christmas Eve, both attractions are open from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Is there an admission fee for the events?
Admission to the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village is free. However, free timed-entry tickets are required for Dickens Village and can be reserved five days in advance.
Will the Wanamaker Light Show and Dickens Village be available in future years?
These attractions are scheduled to pause for the 2026 and 2027 holiday seasons due to building renovations. Efforts are underway to ensure their return in future years.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Wanamaker Light Show | A 10-minute light and music show featuring classic holiday songs and tales, accompanied by the historic Wanamaker Organ. |
| Dickens Village | An immersive, walk-through experience with 26 scenes from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” featuring over 100 vintage figurines. |
| Holly and Humbug Holiday Pop-Up Restaurant | A cozy spot offering wintry fare, festive cocktails, and craft brews. |
| The Shops at The Wanamaker Light Show Vendor Village | An indoor holiday market featuring handmade gifts, artisanal goods, and handcrafted art by local crafters, designers, and makers. |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
